⚠️ Weather: Beware of Strong Winds and Falling Trees
Who is affected: All visitors, especially those on the eastern side of the island (Ponta de São Lourenço) and at higher elevations.
What’s happening: The island is currently experiencing the after-effects of New Year’s weather. An orange warning is in effect. Wind gusts in exposed areas are exceeding 100 km/h, and the ground is saturated with water. Civil Protection has already responded to dozens of incidents, mostly involving fallen trees and minor landslides. The most affected areas are Funchal, Machico, and Santa Cruz.
Recommendation: Exercise extreme caution, even in towns. Avoid parks with large trees and do not park underneath them.
🚫 Hiking: Complete Trail Closures (IFCN)
Who is affected: All hikers and tourists planning to walk the levadas or ridge trails.
Current restrictions: The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) confirmed this morning the complete closure of all recommended walking routes (PR) and forest paths. This is due to the immediate risk of falling rocks and trees. The popular mountain road between Eira do Serrado and Pico do Areeiro is also closed.
Recommendation: Do not risk entering closed-off areas. You face not only heavy fines but also a real danger of injury. Postpone mountain hikes to days with better weather.
✈️ Transportation: Airport and Port
Madeira Airport (FNC): Strong wind gusts (over 100 km/h) are reported around the airport. There is a high probability of flight delays or diversions, similar to yesterday. Check the ana.pt website before heading to the airport. Flights to Porto Santo may be cancelled.
Port of Funchal: Despite the adverse weather, the port is operational and has serviced cruise ships. There are approximately 6,500 cruise passengers in Funchal today, so expect larger crowds in the city center and restaurants.
💡 Editor’s Tip: What to Do Today (and What to Avoid)
Today is not a day for the mountains. Madeira is showing its wild side, but the city offers a safe haven.
- ✅ Where to go: Use the day to visit museums in Funchal (CR7 Museum, 3D Fun Art), take a tour of the Wine Lodges, or go shopping. If you’re a football fan, CD Nacional has a match (dress warmly, it’s windy at the stadium).
- ❌ What to avoid: The levadas, Pico do Areeiro, the Cabo Girão viewpoint (it will be foggy and windy), and swimming in the sea (dangerous waves).